Harvest

by Poison Ruin

Overview

With their third album, Harvest, Philadelphia band Poison Ruin get deeper into their specific blend of raw punk and dungeon synth, referencing aspects of the Dark Ages to highlight how little has changed in societal power structures since the time of feudalism. Heavy lyrics about serfs toiling in the fields and peasants marching toward their deaths serve as metaphors for present-day wage slavery and wealth disparity. Musically, Poison Ruin back up their righteous political anger with appropriately furious playing. The best tracks channel the indignant dissonance of early Wipers, especially on the stomping and post-punky title track and the pained, bending riffs of "Resurrection II." The production has a distant quality to it that's not quite lo-fi but sounds unlike most studio recordings, even those of the band's peers. This effect adds bite to thrashier moments like the stumbling chug of "Bastards Dance." Poison Ruin take this faded sound even further on the quasi-black metal "Frozen Blood" and several intros and interludes of gloomy, fantastical synth instrumentals. The group's lyrical perspectives might be stuck in the Middle Ages, but it's a perfectly grisly match for the rage and excitement of their medieval punk sound. ~ Fred Thomas

Product Details

Release Date:	04/14/2023
Label:	Relapse Records
UPC:	0781676753710
Rank:	51714

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Poison Ruin   Primary Artist

Technical Credits

Mac Kennedy   Sleeve Design
Arthur Rizk   Mastering
Arielle Coupe   Artwork
Hanna Hamilton   Assistant Photographer